Oscar Wigington is in northwest South Carolina about 53 miles west of Greenville. It begins at the intersection with SC 28 and travels north to the North Carolina state line. A spur road heads east and ends at the junction with SC 130. The byway is 20 miles long and follows SC 107 and SC 413. Both state highways are two-lane paved roads suitable for all vehicles. Icy conditions may exist in winter, otherwise the byway is open year-round. Fourteen miles are officially designated a National Forest Scenic Byway.
The scenic byway winds through a hardwood forest along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Turnouts along the byway provide scenic vistas of the surrounding mountains. Fall is a popular time for driving the byway as the area is ablaze with colors of orange, red, and gold.
Hikers, backpackers, and horseback riders will be interested in the 9,015-acre Ellicott Rock Wilderness Area. There are miles of trails running through these beautiful mountains. Maps of the wilderness area and its trails are available from the Andrew Pickens Ranger District in Walhalla. Other trails throughout the forest provide opportunities for short walks to longer day hikes.
The Chattooga River crosses the national forest and is in fact the boundary line between Georgia and South Carolina. Portions of this scenic river have been designated a National Wild and Scenic River. The river offers white-water rapids for those interested in floating. Outfitters can provide you with all you need to enjoy a float trip down this wild and scenic river. Anglers will find the river provides enjoyable trout fishing.
Those interested in camping will find one national forest campground directly along the byway. This campground has 22 tree-shaded sites with picnic tables. Drinking water, restrooms, and shower facilities are also provided. Oconee State Park is near the southern end of the byway and has 140 sites with water and electrical hookups.